Agartala: May 06: The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has designated Agartala, the capital of Tripura, as one of 259 locations nationwide to participate in a major wartime preparedness drill. This unprecedented exercise follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after the recent Pahalgam incident. Agartala’s inclusion stems from its strategic proximity to the India-Bangladesh border and concerns over growing diplomatic ties between Dhaka and Islamabad, raising potential security risks.
This nationwide civilian drill, the first of its kind since the 1971 India-Pakistan war, is scheduled for Wednesday and will cover 27 states and eight union territories. The initiative aims to educate citizens on proper responses during wartime scenarios, including safety protocols, blackout procedures, and civil defense measures.
Officials have directed states to test emergency warning systems, such as airstrike sirens, and to train civilians in immediate blackout techniques designed to confuse enemy aircraft. Citizens will also be guided on how to seek shelter and protect themselves during aerial threats. The government is focused on enhancing public awareness while ensuring operational readiness.
Agartala, given its proximity to the international border, is viewed as a sensitive zone. Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for cross-border cooperation between Bangladesh and Pakistan, prompting extra caution. In preparation, local and national agencies are identifying and protecting critical infrastructure including bridges, government facilities, oil depots, railway stations, and airports.
Sources within the Ministry confirm that these drills are not meant to signal imminent conflict but are part of a broader strategy to ensure national readiness amid uncertain geopolitical developments. The exercise underscores India’s commitment to proactive defense planning and civilian preparedness in a changing regional landscape.
